Iran’s Defense Power Non-Negotiable: Leader

TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei categorically rejected the idea of negotiations on Iran’s defense power, stressing that the country will press ahead with the plans to boost its might and build up its defense capabilities.

“As we have announced several times in the past and announce it once again, the country’s defense capabilities and power are not subject to negotiations and bargaining,” Ayatollah Khamenei said in an address to the graduation ceremony of Army cadets, held in Tehran on Wednesday.

“We will have no bargaining and dealing with the enemy over the country’s means of defense and over whatever provides or supports the national power,” Imam Khamenei underscored.

Vowing Iran’s vigorous efforts to boost its power, the Leader said the enemies attempt to counter Iran’s national might, because they see this as a nuisance.

The adversaries are opposed to the enhancement of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s power in the region and beyond, because such power constitutes the “strategic depth of the Islamic Establishment,” Ayatollah Khamenei explained.

The Leader also stressed the need for efforts to ensure economic security in Iran, saying such safety in the economic arena will not come true unless the country’s economy cuts dependence on the oil revenues.

Imam Khamenei has repeatedly stressed the need for strengthening the country’s military power and called on the Armed Forces to maintain a high level of preparedness.

Also in September, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani unveiled plans for a boost to the country’s military and defense power, including an enhancement of its missile program.

“We won’t ask for permission from anybody to defend our land,” the president said on September 22, saying Iran will boost not only its missile power, but also its Ground Force, Navy and Air Force.